AUGUSTA – The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society was presented the Community Partner in Service-Learning Award at the third annual Hall of Flags Service-Learning Celebration on April 9 at the State House.
The award, sponsored by KIDS Consortium, Maine Campus Compact and Maine Department of Education, is presented to organizations that work effectively, demonstrating the importance of community-school partnerships in making education meaningful for all students.
Winners were selected based on their commitment to making a positive impact on students and their enthusiasm for service-learning. The award, one of four given in the state, was presented for the Humane Society’s involvement with Auburn Middle School students.
For the past four years the Humane Society has partnered with many student groups on Auburn Middle School’s Team 7. Through the partnership, students have learned about the problems of animal abuse in their community and have educated others by making informative bookmarks and pamphlets and teaching elementary students about animal care.
Last year, five seventh grade students created a presentation and video that has been a vital tool in helping the Humane Society educate the community about the need for a new shelter and raising funds to build that shelter.
Service-learning is nationally recognized as a teaching strategy that encourages community-school partnerships. Projects challenge students to solve real community problems, help students develop effective citizenship skills and motivate students to learn academics.
The Humane Society provides a haven for approximately 3,600 sick, homeless and abused animals in the greater Androscoggin area a year. Primary support for the shelter comes from fund-raising events and donations.
The shelter gives back through community services, including animal intake and adoption, animal health services, reuniting people with lost animals, humane education and working with individuals who are disadvantaged or developmentally disabled. The shelter serves nine municipalities, including Lewiston, Auburn, Turner and Greene, and a population of more than 90,000 people.
If interested in learning more about the plans for a new shelter, call Steven Dostie, shelter director, at 786-4713. Anyone interested in volunteering at the shelter or adopting an animal can visit the shelter at 3312 Road or visit the Web site at www.gahumane.org.
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